I think the Indian metaphor is sound. Though on the surface Abbott is a Tonto who must be planning well behind the scenes. Hockey, meanwhile is a Cisco Kid, born to wear a Sombrero and a bulging black outfit.

The Abbott-Hockey team perfected the Opposition role of attack dog when Rudd-Gillard-Rudd needed some leg biting. Abbott-Hockey then knew when to wait and watch - the ACTU-Labor robot perform on brain-dead autopilot imploding and falling over itself.

From Opposition Abbott-Hockey have transitioned into Government quite well. They've maintained unity. Though the author is right to identify Turnbull as a possible stirrer of disunity. Turnbull will continue to be restless unless he's PM or achieves the impossible(?) of being first President of an Australian Republic.

Pete

Here's an insightful commentary on the first fifty days - from the media's point of view.....cartoon Style:

http://www.crikey.com.au/2013/11/07/the-walk-of-shame/

(First Dog On The Moon)

"The biggest problem ... is to stick too closely to the platform they presented to the electorate"

Yeah, you wouldn't want politicians to *do* what they said they would.
That would set a dangerous precedent.

Oh, and if Tony was expressed too much "authority", you'd call him a dictator.

Damned if they do, damned if they don't.